Mac: Samsung 970 EVO Plus NVMe M.2 SSD Firmware Update

[@dondoru1155]

I really, REALLY wanna thank you for this video. I've literally been through hours of videos and although it took me time to get through yours because I had to keep pausing to keep up, yours was the most explanatory and straight forward. You went step by step. I used both your videos. What was perfect was I used the same exact Mac and ssd which was purchased before I came across your videos. I used a 2TB Samsung which wasn't working until I saw your video and bought the similar adapter. Again, thank you

[@pramilalc4980]

Thank you for making this video so simple I updated the firmware using a usb and then changed my ssd to 970 plus. Updated the mac os. It's perfect. Thank you

[@Rickmakes]

Great to hear!

[@brianlarsen3457]

What did you do? You updated the firmware on your ssd, and then you swapped it for another ssd? Or what are you talking about?

[@olanofilm]

sleep mode works?

[@just_kritt]

Oh my god. I cannot thank you enough for this video. I've tried and tried and tried installing the new SSD and it just didn't work. It was so frustrating. And all because of this firmware update. Thank you!!!

[@cristophermartinez7197]

I'm confused, is the SSD already installed onto the Mac or the enclosure here? Your previous video shows how to install the SSD onto the Mac but got confused when you talked about filming a second video on how to update the firmware on the SSD. So, do you suggest formating the SSD to macOS first, then updating the firmware of the SSD after? Then install the SSD onto the Mac after it has been formatted and updated?

[@pattskatoey3139]

He first created the usb installer via external drive. Once completed he placed the ssd inside the mac and then booted into options where you can see the efi usb stick.

[@fr_schmidlin]

I tried to update to the 4B2QEXM7 firmware that's available now, but it doesn't recognize my 2TB drive. Does this happen to anyone too? My iMac takes ages to boot, and I'm hoping this firmware update can solve it.

[@MiguelTolentino-tv4os]

Apparently there are two versions of the ssd 970 evo plus (one of them has the 4B2QEXM7 as the latest firmware update, and 2B2QEXE7 for the other one), so it might be that you dont need the 4B2QEXM7 firmware update

[@fr_schmidlin]

@@MiguelTolentino-tv4os Thank you for the information. Shame on Samsung for releasing two different devices with the same model number. They should've called it 971 EVO Plus or something like that.

[@nechesnm]

Thanks for the details. My mac doesn't detect 970 EVO Plus on EFI boot that you showed on video 3:08. In Disk(s) DETECTED box, it shows "No supported SSD detected for Firmware Update!!!". I have an Early 2015 13" MacBook Pro Retina. The SSD is mounted on my motherboard using a Sintech ST-NGFF2013-C Adapter. The SSD is recognized by my MacOS Monteray and I can see the Samsung SSD 970 EVO Plus 2TB SSD listed in the System Report on the Mac. I am able to write to and read folders and files from the SSD. I created the USB installer as you showed in your video and it is recognized when I option boot my laptop and the installer boots and the program initializes. Any suggestions are appreciated.

[@adriang.7017]

I get the same message. Did you manage to find a solution?

[@nechesnm]

@@adriang.7017 No I haven’t. Have you?

[@adriang.7017]

@@nechesnm, sort of. It seems that some of the 970 EVOs get this firmware upgrade. The rest may not need it. I found "the solution" on a forum. Some guy said that he e-mailed the guys from Samsung and they asked him what serial number was his SSD. And they replied that his SSD did not need the update.

[@0j0nn]

Hey Rick, thank you so much for the tutorial, everything works perfectly! The only issue I have is that the adapter you linked seems to be a few millimeters / 1/16" too thick, and the back lid doesn't close properly by that small margin. I could force it closed, but I'm concerned it might cause problems later on. Do you have any recommendations for this issue? Other adapters on Amazon seem to have the same problem. Thanks again for the rest of the tutorial.

[@Rickmakes]

Which Mac do you have? My early 2015 MBP retina doesn't have that issue.

[@0j0nn]

@@Rickmakes Sorry I forgot to include that, I have a Macbook Pro 13" early 2015. :/ Many of the 1 Star reviews on Amazon said that the adapter is too thick. Lots of people recommed the Sintech adapter, but that one seems to have the same issue according to the 1 Star reviews. I'm thinking about going with an OWC 1TB Aura Pro X2 SSD now, as it only costs a few bucks more than the EVO 970 plus & adapter as I'm not quire sure what to do... EDIT: I think I bought the adapter from either German or Italian Amazon. It's the QNINE one, and it seems to be much taller than some of the other variants you linked..

[@BrysonPrice]

Thanks for the video! What’s the difference between using this method to create the USB an using Unetbootin ?

[@shamchaudhri9967]

I watched your last vid with the replacement. After ordering/trying, I read on reddit you have to update the firmware on windows so I've been (a. struggling on my macbook as I ran out disk space for the install of high sierra/mojave -_- ; b. after getting the enclosure installed.) So now I logged into my dad's PC, downloaded Magician ), yet it didn't read the enclosure and Samsung disk in magician regardless the format. So now to recap, this vid says to do that AFTER installing in the mac?? And in order to do the firmware, you just need a separate USB? Damn I watched separate video to say to use Unetbookin and install to load another application which reformatted the drive to Dos, then do something with same looking file you did. Which was all to do that same ISO loader which I heard that could destroy your (dad's) HD. So you're saying once I get macos updated finally (might just have to a clean restore, but unsure if time machine back would go from el cap to high sierra. My Google IT fundamentals course I did years ago were clearly inadequate. This thing and my brain is broken. Thank you for inspiring me to try this but it's not doable.

[@Rickmakes]

If your drive is newer, the firmware is probably already up to date. It was older firmwares that had compatibility issues. The reason you couldn't upgrade the firmware on Windows is that you have to have the drive connected to an internal m.2 NVMe slot. You can't update it while in a USB enclosure. This stuff can be difficult at times. I've been doing this type of stuff for decades. I still get confused regularly. These learning pains will turn into experience over time and you will look back on how far you've come.

[@egzon2262]

hi, you didnt mention do you have to do the update after you insert the new internal ssd, or you have to do that before you insert it thank you

[@Rickmakes]

The SSD has to be installed in the computer in order to do the firmware update. You can update it before or after you have a system installed on it. If you bought the SSD recently, I'm guessing it already has the latest update.

[@PacificNorthwestR]

@@Rickmakes what happens if you don’t update it ?

[@tehillimmusic]

Thanks for the video. When you use the bootable thumbdrive, you mentioned that you have replaced the ssd. I presume you mean you’ve put the samsung 970 evo plus into the mac as an internal drive as you have done in your other video. My question is, was your ssd already fully set up with all friles transferred when you booted from your usb with samsung firmware iso in it? Wondering if i should do that precedure before or after I do my time machine transfer

[@Rickmakes]

I can't remember how I did it but it is generally best to update first. That way in the very rare case of a problem occurring, you won't have wasted time transferring everything over. If you have purchased the drive recently, I'm guessing it already has the latest firmware. You can update after setting everything up, just make sure you have a backup.

[@shakiranjum]

@@Rickmakes when did samsung released new firmware update for 970 evo plus. i have 06/2020 model, should i go for firmware update. please reply.

[@brianlarsen3457]

the external flash drive wont show up on reboot+option. Why is that?

[@sur.geek333]

Did you need an adapter to connect the drive? I have a early mbp 13 wanting to buy this drive in 2t. Thanks for the info!

[@Rickmakes]

Yes. The adapter is required. If you are buying a new drive in 2021, I'm guessing it already has the updated firmware.

[@FefeChoosey]

Does a flash drive need to be plugged into the computer in order for the 2tb ssd to show up???

[@_slickyricky]

When upgrading to Samsung 970 Plus do you do this step before or after formatting the drive to APFS? or it does not matter?

[@Rickmakes]

It doesn't seem to matter. This specific update wasn't destructive. I always recommend backing up before firmware updates where warranted though.

[@michaelkrammer395]

Hi Rick, wonderful Video. I am upgrading my iMAC 27 19.1 A2115 with a 970 Eva Plus and a SSD. Which adapter do you recommend for the NVME? How can I do a clean install when the old drives are not present anymore? Thank you. Michael

[@Rickmakes]

I'm not sure about upgrade options on the newer iMacs. I thought the SSDs were soldered onto the motherboard but I could be wrong.

[@thibaultgrouas4040]

Hi and thanks for this. do you know if I can boot from the USB drive if I have no bootscreen (I use non UEFI graphic card, RX580 on a classic mac pro 5,1). Thanks !

[@finster888]

Hi RickMakes. I'm not computer savvy at all and I just bought the 970 EVO Plus 2TB in August 2020. Dumb question...do you think the SSD already has the latest firmware? If so, if I install the EVO Plus 2TB to replace my EVO 1TB, would I have any issues? I have High Sierra installed. Would I need to upgrade to Mojave? Thanks in advance!

[@Rickmakes]

I'm guessing the firmware is up to date. I haven't tried using this with High Sierra but if it is working with the 1TB model, I'm guessing the 2TB model will work just the same.

[@finster888]

@@Rickmakes Thanks for the reply! My 1TB SSD is the older regular 970 EVO and the new 2TB SSD I bought is the 970 EVO Plus. Crossing my fingers it has the new firmware.

[@jimmymendez3022]

@@finster888 did it have it?

[@mmody4507]

Hey Rick...thanks a lot for great videos. I am trying to upgrade the firmware of 970 EVO+ SSD but it's not getting detected when I boot up my Mac with USB drive, I see EFI boot option too just when connect the SSD and proceed to update firmware it doesnt recognise the SSD. I see that your firmware version is bit different from mine, I got 4B2QEXM7 from Samsung site. Any suggestion will great help. Thanks.

[@martinussen34]

easy fix was to just install windows on the mac (on a usb drive) thats how i did it..

[@cwwong4938]

Same problem here, 🫠desperate for solution, since my Mac starts up real sloooow after the new ssd….

[@corey7219]

I bought the 1tb version of the 970 evo + for my macbook air (with adapter), and a 2tb 970 evo + for my asus zephyrus g14 (2021). They are both great! Although, I tried an internet recovery on my 2015 macbook air, to install mac os x yosemite, and it wouldn't detect the nvme at all. Maybe the problem is the firmware is not up to date?

[@Rickmakes]

Unfortunately internet recovery doesn't work with the NVMe SSDs. I have a technique on getting it working here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aoS2qaeNhdSafLM

[@mikefermin3441]

i'm not getting that window asking me to "access files in my downloads folder"

[@nicole-or5up]

Thanks for making this video. May i know which adapter do you use with 960evo plus? I want to upgrade my macbook air 2017 not sure if it work the same as yours Thank you

[@Rickmakes]

You can find the hardware in the description of my upgrade video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aoS2qaeNhdSafLM

[@Sgarb93]

hello Rick! after having finished creating the USB stick, I do not receive the "device not readable" warning. If I reinsert it, the usb is called "Samsung". When I try to boot EFI Upgrade, I see only two option for boot: "Mac OS" (ok) and "Windows" instead of “EFI Boot”. And boot from this “Windows” do nothing… any advice??

[@Sgarb93]

I'm trying to update the firmware of the SSD 970 EVO (not plus). and opening the Iso there isn’t boot file :(

[@Rickmakes]

Is the ISO you downloaded to update the firmware compatible with Mac?

[@Vocalisto]

@@Sgarb93 Ive tried it too a lot of times and can't get the USB Drive too EFI Boot it doesn't show up.. Did you find a solution?

[@marisavots3166]

Thanks for the concise video tutorial. Does this work on a M1/M2 Mac? I created a bootable .iso flash drive but it does not show up as a startup volume option on my M1 Mac Studio. I’m trying to flash a 2TB Samsung 980 Pro NVME that is installed in a Thunderbolt 3 enclosure. It does boot up on an older 2012 Intel MacBook Pro. Unfortunately, the Intel MacBook Pro will not recognize the TB3 drive. The firmware installer scans but can’t find the NVME enclosure. What to do with firmware upgrades using an M1/M2 Mac? Thanks

[@Rickmakes]

As far as I know, the firmware upgrader won't work in an external enclosure. Do you by chance have a PC available with an NVMe slot? That should work.

[@domdz]

This particular drive Evo 970 Pro has a problem which causes windows 10 21H2 to BSOD crash with certain drivers. I'm looking for the solution atm, I think it is going to be a driver rollback from samsung back to the standard mircrosoft driver.

[@oudomsambatchorn851]

I come from the upgrade video I was wondering u boot from the Samsung ssd and then u install the driver right ?

[@Rickmakes]

This is to upgrade the firmware. If you bought the SSD recently, it likely has the upgraded firmware.

[@seanwill]

Hi Rick. Great vid; however, I can't get the Mac (Catalina on MacPro 2019) to load from the ISO file. I see the option of the EFI Boot icon, I choose it but then it loads the Mac OS. I've Allowed boot from EXT drive for the T2 Chip as well as lowered Security settings. Any ideas?

[@Rickmakes]

No sure about that. I don't think I have any Intel Macs with the T2 chip. If you have a USB optical drive, you could try burning the ISO to the disc. I don't suspect it would work if a USB drive doesn't but it might be worth trying.

[@seanwill]

Thanks or the reply Rick. Yeah I took it to my old 2010 MacPro running Sierra and tried it. It worked but I didn't get the Welcome to Firmware Update screen. Instead I get a Welcome to Samsung Magician Tool with a Samsung Login request line. I'm running the .iso file downloaded from the firmware page. Any ideas? Thanks in advance....

[@JamesCook-uo7wy]

hey rick after scanning EFI boot and pressing any key to continue, it didn’t say it found my drive or whether or not it’s updated. it simply said press any key to restart

[@davidlucas1844]

great video. I have a 970evo plus 2tb nvme in my iMac with version 2b2qexm7 on. I downloaded and created the USB stick as per your video and rebooted the system. It loaded the Usb and ran the Samsung software but said no compatible disk found. Any ideas?

[@evanstairiker1510]

Can I do all the firmware downloads prior to swapping out the new drive? And then just run it after I swap them?

[@djkamomusic]

Hi Rick, I have the same 970 Evo plus in my MacBook, but the firmware boot device isn’t detecting the 970 Evo plus

[@Rickmakes]

Interesting. Does your 970 Evo plus have the outdated firmware?

[@sirking7839]

Hi，Thank you for the video. After updating efI, you can update macOS Monterey on SANSUNG 970 EVO ？

[@Rickmakes]

My initial attempt at upgrading to Monterey failed but I haven't spent a lot of time on it yet so I might be able to get it working.

[@sirking7839]

@@Rickmakes Thank you for your reply and look forward to your successful video works👍

[@navictor]

Hi Rick, I have two versions of the Samsung EVO and EVO Plus, both of them not showing at the boot screen and also in Startup! however both are new and showing in Disk Utilities with no issues! Working on MacPro 5,1 with High Sierra Your help is highly appreciated

[@Rickmakes]

Are you running Mojave or Catalina? I think support was first added in Mojave but I've only used them in Catalina. Next, is the firmware up to date? I have a video on updating firmware here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r3O2daiObMplmZY I also have this video on boot repair. I don't know if it is helpful but I figured I'd share it anyways: kzbin.info/www/bejne/goO3ZIuwr9GajNE

[@troyhoang6042]

I'm looking into purchasing this adapter for the 970 Evo Plus: www.amazon.com/dp/B01CWWAENG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_ep_dp_YMkIBb9T383R3?tag=ifixitam-20 However, on Amazon, it says that the Evo 970 plus isn't supported. Now that this firmware is out, will it resolve this issue? Also, will it fix the hibernation issues I've heard so much about regarding the adapter and SSD?

[@Xxtechnokid101xX]

Troy Hoang that’s the same adapter I bought and seems to work for the 970 evo plus you just have to take some extra steps like he mentioned in the videos and also get an external enclosure first to format the ssd into a bootable drive.

[@Rickmakes]

It is my understanding that the firmware issue fixed the problem but I can't say for sure because I didn't have any problem getting it to work. I do always have my backup system in place because you never know when a drive might fail in the future.

[@SirJaiBoog]

Troy Hoang I performed this upgrade in a 2014 rmbp with the samsung evo plus 1tb, found out the sleep/standby/hibernation/autopoweroff issues affected the 2013-2014 models, reading on the macrumors forum website thread this known for all aftermarket ssds and apple has no plan to update the dxe boot rom driver for this forums.macrumors.com/threads/upgrading-2013-2014-macbook-pro-ssd-to-m-2-nvme.2034976/page-257 Mac models will enter Standby mode after they have been sleeping for 3 hours. The issue we are investigating is a system crash which can sometimes occur while attempting to wake a Mac from this Standby mode. Afterward a panic log will be displayed. eshop.macsales.com/Service/Knowledgebase/Article/26/785/NVMe-SSDs-Standby-Mode-Issue This problem is related to the NVMe DXE driver in the bootrom indmem-global.com/download/20191014.html

[@qiaozhang5739]

Thank you for your video,I am looking for 970 eve plus 1T for my mac pro,I am not sure it can work on my mac pro, because I don't have other win10 computer, do you think I can upgrade the old ssd with 970evo plus in the same mac pro(without other computer ),now my mac runs catalina (10.15.4)

[@Rickmakes]

I'm not up on that machine. If it support m.2 NVMe, I'm guessing the Samsung drive will work.

[@qiaozhang5739]

@@Rickmakes Thank you,I will try

[@John-Smith-007]

Hi thank for this info ! i need to upgrade the firmware of my nvme evo 970 BUT it's my actual system hdd on my mac pro ? how can i do ? it's plug on a pci card , how can i do ? thank you

[@Hinakamiyama]

Thanks for the details. My mac doesn't detect 970 EVO Plus on EFI boot that you showed on video 3:08. In Disk(s) DETECTED box, it shows "No supported SSD detected for Firmware Update!!!". Any suggestions are appreciated.

[@Rickmakes]

You have it installed in the computer or an external enclosure? It will only update if installed in the computer.

[@Hinakamiyama]

@@Rickmakes Thanks it worked!

[@ates5510]

Hi Rick, thank you in advance for answer. The disk is mounted on motherboard but I'm getting "No supported SSD detected for Firmware Update". MacBook Pro (Retina, 13-inch, Early 2015) A1502 and Samsung 970 EVO Plus NVMe M.2 SSD 1TB. Do you have any idea ?

[@santhoshraj96]

I have the same problem ! Installed in MacBook Air early 2015 ! Running Mac OS monetary

[@CriCKiD3]

@@santhoshraj96 yesss same it doesnt detect and its installed in the computer

[@xiongkids9303]

Hello Rick. I just watched your video and for some reason when I go to download the EVO 970 Plus firmware, I'm getting a "The following disk images couldn't be opened" - "no mountable file system. Any idea what I can do? I'm not able to get my SSD drive to connect to my Mac.

[@olanofilm]

sleep mode works perfect?

[@olanofilm]

can I update the firmware in the mac without SO?

[@jeffersonjunio6231]

No supported ssd detected. Legacy or uefi boot. I get the same message.

[@arnabdas5678]

does this process work in linux ??

[@richardbergan6638]

Thank you for the detailed instructions... Little help please... I made thumb drive from video instructions and seems I did correct. When I restart holding option key I never see EFI boot. I see Mac Os but no EFI boot. And there is no additional drop down for additional drives. iMac 2019 stock no upgrades if that helps thanks.

[@Rick_2812]

He upgraded the ssd on his Mac to a samsung 970, that is the drive he was going to update. Since your disk is stock you probably don’t have to because it is updated by apple software updates

[@checkanr138]

you dont have this drive so updating it with samsung firmware update would not even find your drive.

[@nathank5140]

Thanks for sharing. I installed without issues, but its only showing up as 2x PCIe lanes @ 8.0 GT/s instead of 4 in a mid 2015 Macbook Pro, which I understand should be using 4x PCIe lanes. Given I paid so much for it I'd like to know if others have it working with 4x PCIe lanes. Does anyone know how to get 4x lanes working? I did a PRam reset but didn't help. Wiggled it about a bit. Do you think its the adapter. Even Sintech says their adapters don't work with Evo 970 Plus - but maybe that is old and they say that due to the old firmware. Thoughts?

[@johnmilitano5021]

Rick, I have been at this all day. Using a MAC MINI and I have a Samsung V-NAND 970-EVO. Ever since I installed Monterey, the drive has been burning hot for no reason at all. I am trying your method 100 times and to no avail does my MAC see the flash drive upon rebooting and holding down the option key. I tried different flash drives and just can't figure this out. The Flash Drive was formated FAT32 so I am lost.

[@kalyanbanerjee1754]

Please inform if the firmware is to be updated before installing Mac OS or after the os is installed.

[@Rickmakes]

I found it easier to do this after installing macOS because the drive had to be installed in the Mac. There is certainly the possibility that a firmware update could cause a problem on the drive but that is why it is important to have a backup plan in place.

[@kalyanbanerjee1754]

Thanks for the valuable update. One more thing is it required to insulate the adoptor pins with a high temperature tape to avoid any short circuit ? Is there any way to figure out the firmware version of Samsung SSD 970 evo plus in MacBook Air 2017 A1466 model.

[@kalyanbanerjee1754]

RickMakes Thanks for your reply. Please inform me if Samsung 970 evo plus is compatible with MacBook Air model a1466 year 2017. Also if I can install the os through bootable pen drive of Catalina

[@kalyanbanerjee1754]

RickMakes Sir I have installed the os on my external drive. Please inform me if I have to select the external disk as start off disk to complete the rest part of installation before putting it into my Mac. This is because the external disk gets un mounted after os installation and the Mac restarts from the internal disk. Please help.

[@Vocalisto]

I followed these Instruction exactly and Iso Image is on my USB Drive now but if I'm shut down and start my Mac new and holding down the option key I can't boot from the USB Drive because it doesn't appear ... what am I doing wrong??

[@kenmacdonald9554]

Was an adapter card like the Sintech NGFF M.2 nVME SSD Adapter Card required, in order to fit the 970 EVO Plus into the MacBook Pro?

[@Rickmakes]

Yes. The adapter is required.

[@faszinovumbrandingdesign4400]

Is there a way using the mac to check, which firmware version is actual on the ssd? Thanks in advance.

[@Rickmakes]

If you got to About this Mac in the Apple Menu and click on the System Report, I think you can find the drive under NVMExpress and see the firmware version. If you have trouble, let me know and I will try to give you more specific instructions.

[@TheITiko]

I apologize for the silly question but why don‘t you just update MacOS via the AppStore if you‘re already running OSX on the 970? Or are we talking about a different firmware here?

[@Rickmakes]

This updates the Samsung firmware on the SSD. From what I understand, some of the earlier models of the 970 EVO Plus had compatibility issues with Macs.

[@SpencerDouglas85]

Hi Rick I cannot find the file with the EFI boot what will I have to do to see this when I restart my mac?

[@vhec1267]

Hi Rick, I'm planning to upgrade my rmbp mid 2015 to a samsung evo plus 2tb using your tutorial. I was just wondering if the ssd heats up too much or is it working just fine? Thanks in advance for your response.

[@Rickmakes]

I haven't experienced any problems with excess heat from my 1TB model.

[@denisovanhybrid9610]

How did you go?

[@zlatkogjuroski3235]

Is this ssd upgrade works for macbook air mid 2013? Cheers

[@SirJaiBoog]

Zlatko Gjuroski I performed this upgrade also in a 2014 rmbp with the samsung evo plus 1tb, found out the sleep/standby/hibernation/autopoweroff issues affected the 2013-2014 models, reading on the macrumors forum website thread this known for all aftermarket ssds and apple has no plan to update the dxe boot rom driver for this forums.macrumors.com/threads/upgrading-2013-2014-macbook-pro-ssd-to-m-2-nvme.2034976/page-257 Mac models will enter Standby mode after they have been sleeping for 3 hours. The issue we are investigating is a system crash which can sometimes occur while attempting to wake a Mac from this Standby mode. Afterward a panic log will be displayed. eshop.macsales.com/Service/Knowledgebase/Article/26/785/NVMe-SSDs-Standby-Mode-Issue This problem is related to the NVMe DXE driver in the bootrom of the 2013-2014 MacBooks indmem-global.com/download/20191014.html

[@modemmack]

ATTENTION: If you're using this on Windows, Samsung Magician software will do this without having to type terminal commands. You can avoid this completely in that case. By the way, the firmware update is essential. This drive was causing massive lag and stuttering until I installed it yesterday.

[@Rickmakes]

How do you run Magician on a Mac?

[@modemmack]

@@Rickmakes Ah.... In my defense, I was half asleep. 😂

[@BrysonPrice]

Magician does not have the necessary update needed for Mac. Magician only updates to 1B2QEXM7 and macOS needs the 2B2QEXM7

[@Rickmakes]

​@@BrysonPrice Mine came with 2B2QEXM7. Are you on 1B2QEXM7? Is it not updating with the 2B2QEXM7 iso?

[@BrysonPrice]

RickMakes i FINALLY figured it out 😬 Im almost bald now from all the hair pulling 😂 www.reddit.com/r/hackintosh/comments/g9xbxs/samsung_970_evo_firmware_update_cant_get_the_usb/?

[@SergeySSD]

If you can't see usb *Boot Efi* try to write image by Rufus in Windows it faster and stable. Thanks for video

[@tppt1032]

Edit: Just for kicks, I tried making the 970 EVO Plus firmware update USB, and it was recognized instantly by my MacBook Pro. I think there is some issue with the EVO (non-Plus) firmware update. Original post follows: Thanks, I have installed a Samsung 970 EVO (not Plus) into my 2015 MacBook Pro, restored macOS from a time machine backup and now wish to update the firmware. I downloaded the firmware for the 970 EVO and prepared the USB according to your video, but the only drive that appears in the Startup Manager (holding down Option at boot) is the SSD, not the USB. Any thoughts? I tried using a different USB, tried installing to /dev/rdisk3, tried reformatting the USB as GUID/exfat and installing to /dev/rdisk3s1, tried using UNetbootin per the samsung directions, tried resetting PRAM and SMC on the MacBook Pro, nothing works. If I make a macOS installer USB (the OS, not for a firmware update), it appears instantly in the Startup Manager. Any help anyone could give on how to get the firmware usb recognized would be most appreciated.

[@nathanroyster1324]

Just ran into the same issue. Should I be concerned?

[@tppt1032]

@@nathanroyster1324 I was never able to perform the update due to the issue described, and gave up. If you have more luck, I'd be interested to know.

[@Vocalisto]

I've got the same issues here. I tried it so many times but the USB Drive don't show up if I want to boot from that. It's soo bad that nobody can point a solution

[@marcochavanne]

So I got the files on my thumb drive but when I try to boot using the option button its showing up as "Windows" and when selected it goes through the Apple logo twice then boots from the main drive. I am not sure if I had the thumb drive formatted properly. I used MSDOS FAT when I did. Is that the issue? (Running Latest Big Sur on Mid-2014 MBP with a Samsung 980)

[@LaMeloVision]

thanks for the video , quick question i have an early 2015 mbp and I was wondering whatas best if the 960 or 970 ?

[@Rickmakes]

I went with the 970 EVO Plus because it is the latest model. Newer SSDs tend to be faster and have higher endurance. That being said, there doesn't appear to be a big difference between the 970 EVO and the 970 EVO Plus. The early 2015 MBP is the limiting factor in speed.

[@LaMeloVision]

RickMakes awesome thanks for the reply

[@andreabaglione]

I have some issue in catalina, is not possibile start from usb

[@satriobayuary]

can you explain to me why we should upgrade the firmware? what if we didn't upgrade it?

[@Rickmakes]

From what I understand, there were some compatibility issues with the 970 EVO Plus. I'm guessing most of the recent stock sold has the upgraded firmware.

[@Hytkrdg]

Hello, when I press Efi, Samsung asks me for username and password. Do you have any advice for this?

[@mraungthuya]

Should I install ssd first and update later or update first using enclosure and install then? Please?

[@Rickmakes]

If the SSD was purchased recently, it may already have the latest firmware. You have to install the SSD in the Mac to update the firmware. You could update it prior to setting it up. Alternatively you could update it after getting it all set up. There is a slight chance that updating the firmware could mess up the SSD so I would make sure you have a current backup before doing it.

[@mraungthuya]

@@Rickmakes Thank you so much. I won’t think twice to subscribe your channel.

[@David-xv5ub]

Can you update the firmware adata xpg sx8200 pro ?

Great video. I did all the operations. The upload was successful. He sees the disc. But I can't see it in the system? Hardware is Imac 18.3 2017 and operating system is sierra. I will be very happy if you can help me with this. Thank you.

[@much2fast4you1]

Hi! I got the same Ssd and made the bootable usb and restarted the Mac and selected the drive, and I get to that Samsung electronics firmware update utility. However, it says it cannot find any drive that is compatible. When I’m in my Mac I can see the drive and transfer files to it etc, but I cannot see the drive in that bootable Samsung firmware utility menu. What format did you format your ssd to before updating its firmware, APFS, Marcos extended journaled, or?

[@Rickmakes]

I think the Samsung utility will only work with the drive installed in the Mac's internal port.

[@starstreetadventures]

@@Rickmakes Can you explain what you mean "internal port". The USB enclosure plugs into the Mac externally.

[@Rick_2812]

Rob Mitchell He means the port on the inside where your stock ssd is

[@ajrc1987]

What's the benefit of upgrading this ssd? Thanks

[@Rickmakes]

Early models of the 970 EVO Plus had a problem with Macs that was fixed with this firmware update.

[@ajrc1987]

@@Rickmakes nice, I’m gettting mine tomorrow. The thing is that Idk if this trick will work on M1 Apple silicon laptops. Have ever tried it?

[@Rickmakes]

@@ajrc1987 You can't upgrade the drive if it is in an external enclosure but if the drive is new, it should have the latest updated firmware. It would probably be very unlikely to find a new model with the older incompatible firmware. You could run into the older firmware if you were buying one used on eBay, for instance.

[@akaZarj]

what is the speed of the ssd after firmware update?

[@Rickmakes]

Right now I'm getting around 1216MB/s write and 1454MB/s read.

[@PAIGELYNNCURRAN]

I bought all your products on your list. Why does my Quine NVME enclosed piece have to have a stripped screw? This is so frustrating. How do I get it off?

[@Rickmakes]

That sucks. You can try using a rubber band between the screw and the screwdriver. You may need to stretch the rubber band a bit to get it to bite. You can find a picture of what I am describing here: lifehacker.com/remove-a-stripped-screw-with-a-rubber-band-5462520 If that doesn't work, you may need to exchange it. You could also superglue a spare screwdriver to the screw but I would only do that in an emergency as it could make things worse.

[@PAIGELYNNCURRAN]

@@Rickmakes Thanks I tried the rubber band. I will try a few more things first. I'll keep you updated.

[@journeytinoco8892]

Thank you Rick, I did all the steps, I can see the firmware updated but in the last step when I restart the computer the disk not appears. What can I do?

[@Rickmakes]

I'm guessing you are holding down the option button when you restart. Is the partition scheme of the drive set to GUID? You can check that in the Disk Utility. Also, have you installed the system on it yet? I had to install the system on the drive while in an external enclosure. Then the system was recognized when I installed it in the Macbook.

[@suryadharma5014]

Hi Rick....I just upgraded my SSD MBA 2013 with Samsung 970 EVO Plus....and it works !!! Thanks alot for your step by step upgrade and firmware update videos. But now, I have an issue that I can not install Bootcamp on it (the Windows 10 iso did not running) . Can you help me please.....

[@Rickmakes]

I don't currently run Bootcamp but I did try it and was able to install Windows when I was doing research and testing for this video. If you are having trouble with the Windows ISO you are using, you might try finding an older version of Windows 10. If that installs, you can then upgrade Windows using Windows Update.

[@suryadharma5014]

@@Rickmakes ok, thanks alot....

[@erp3538]

Hi there Rick, why am I getting this error: dd: unknown operand disk I will appreciate your answer. Thanks

[@rebirthof25]

What do I have to do for windows??

[@sergiominnicifilms]

how is possible this procedure qith an external ssd connected in usb?

[@Rickmakes]

It's unfortunately not possible with an externally connected drive.

[@Michael-Martell]

My nvme is already installed in my 2017 iMac. under "'About this mac’>’System Report’>’NVME Express’" it says it doesn't contain any NVME express devices and to make sure its already been connected and powered on. Because it doesn't detect the drive, I also can’t see which disk its it. Unbootin also doesnt seem to work with Big Sur. I installed the hard drive on my 2.5” SSD to get the system running. I even tried installing windows 10 through parrellels and 'sharing everything (Folders) with mac’ but all it could see was the virtual drive it was formatted on. Any suggestions to getting this firmware installed?

[@Rickmakes]

On the early-2015 MBP in my video, the NVMe drive was not recognized by the system when installed internally until I installed a system on it. I had to install the system on the drive while it was in an external enclosure (listed in the description). Once I did that, I was able to install it and have it be recognized by the computer. That being said, it was recognized by the firmware update tool. If you bought the SSD recently, it is likely that the firmware is already up to date. You can see my upgrade video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aoS2qaeNhdSafLM

[@jaspermuyco7241]

i have the same exact issue... any updates on what worked?

[@Michael-Martell]

@@jaspermuyco7241 yeah. Install windows through boot camp so that it’s not running both OS’s at once. Just windows. Then proceed with installing the drivers. And updating the firmware. After the updates it’ll be seen by your Mac and you’ll be able to format it for Apple.

[@jaspermuyco7241]

Do i need to take out the ssd from the slot and plug it in externally or when i install windows it will automatically recognize the drive? Just asking as dissassembling it is a hassle.

[@Michael-Martell]

@@jaspermuyco7241 no you can leave it in. Windows will recognize it and yeah I know. I’ve assembled and disassembled it like 8 times.

[@mayomode]

Hi. I just bought an Evo plus 970 500gb to upgrade de M2 of my Macbook pro 13" early 2015. It's necessary to update the Samsung firmware?

[@Rickmakes]

If you bought it recently, the firmware should have already been updated to the Mac compatible firmware.

[@mayomode]

@@Rickmakes I bought it this morning. Thanks

[@tup2012]

Thank you for the detail instruction. Could you help me write down the command at 1:59 starting with: sudo dd... Thanks!

[@Rickmakes]

Sorry about that. I should have added the commands to my website. I have updated it now. You can see them here: www.rickmakes.com/mac-samsung-970-evo-plus-nvme-m-2-ssd-firmware-update/ I hope that helps.

[@tup2012]

RickMakes thank you, it works perfectly for me!

[@SirJTheDJ]

Hi Rick, Thank you for this video. In the terminal, I typed 1s -1 tab and the file came up. I hit ENTER and the next line read “-bash: 1s command not found” Any tips? Have I screwed this thing up? Am I missing something?

[@Rickmakes]

Replace the "1" with a lowercase "L".

[@santhoshraj96]

It’s says no supported SSD detected for firmware update!!! Please help

[@Rickmakes]

If your SSD is newer, it may not need the firmware update.

[@toltol5882]

What was on the SD card? That’s where I am lost.

[@toltol5882]

Do you need to update the firmware?

[@dready95]

Hello Rick, I have done the Firmware upgrade, but my macbook air 2017 still can't see the SSD. Is there any tips? The Samsung Utility see the SSD 970 EVO plus, but not MacOS. I'm stuck there... I thought that was the adapter, but as samsung utility can see it...

[@Rickmakes]

Did you install the system on it while it was in an external enclosure?

[@bushayijadavid803]

Hey,I just removed my old ssd and tried to install a new one(Samsung 970 EVO) and I am not able to view it In Disk utility, Any advice ?

[@Rickmakes]

Did you see my previous video? kzbin.info/www/bejne/aoS2qaeNhdSafLM I had to create a full working system on the NVMe drive using an NVMe to USB enclosure. Then I installed the drive in the Mac and it worked. I tried installing the drive first but it didn't show up in disk utility when I booted to the recovery console.

[@DJFELIXT]

Hi, im just erase my macbook disk and i had try many times for samsung evo 970 but it didn't work

[@frankquinol]

If I’m buying this in 2023, do I still need to run/check for updates?

[@Rickmakes]

Should be good to go if you are buying a new one.

[@frankquinol]

@@Rickmakes thank you for the reply!

[@frankquinol]

Hi Rick, I tried the firmware update and it said, “no supported SSD detected for firmware update.” Does this mean my SSD is ok or did I screw up somewhere? Also I’ve noticed the Mac running warmer than usual and drains the battery quicker than before. Any suggestions?

[@ToPanPawel]

Hi Rick! Great video! I have the following scenario: I have my Macbook Pro with Samsung Evo 970 with my MacOS installed on it. I would like to upgrade the firmware on this drive. Will your method work on my SSD and will my files survive the firmware upgrade? Or it will be completely lost and I will have to restore it from time machine?

[@Rickmakes]

It should work so long as you download the proper version. These firmware updates are typically non-destructive but it is always best to have a current backup on standby just in case something goes wrong. Better safe than sorry.

[@CryptoFeeders]

I did not got, is evo plus in ur macbook ?

[@Rickmakes]

Yes. It is a 1TB 970 EVO Plus in an early-2015 Macbook Pro

[@GodsGift79]

I plugged my NVME drive to the computer, can I write the ISO directly to NVME or I have to put it on a flash drive?

[@Rickmakes]

You should write the ISO to a flash drive and boot the Mac with it.

[@CryptoFeeders]

@@Rickmakes at that time where should the evo plus ssd?

[@checkanr138]

@@CryptoFeeders it needs to be connected to the computer so you can update it. it just needs to detectable by the system. the iso needs to be on a usb pen drive. you need to boot from the pen drive, so it can write onto the non booted samsung drive and update it.

[@marcoa.betancourt1469]

Hi Rick! I was trying to follow this video before opening my Mac and finding out that I need to do this. So, problem, Im in the terminal part and then I write Downloads/ it says “zsh: permission denied: Downloads/“ any help there?

[@Rickmakes]

You may need to go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Privacy and "Full Disk Access" to allow the Terminal access to the Downloads folder.

[@pramilalc4980]

Thank you

[@keithkamps77]

Thanks

[@Rickmakes]

You're welcome.

[@pantasamuel7504]

excellent video I acquired a ssd 970 evo plus to update the storage of my macbook air 2013 a1466 but when I put it it does not detect me or anything, they tell me that this ssd is not compatible with that model but I already acquired it is 1tb and I would like to find a way to make it compatible also buy the m.2 adapter and maybe not, previously I updated the firmware but it still won't let me be as a disk to install the system it only detects it to update it nothing else, if it could help me it would stay very grateful, in advance very good video successes and move on

[@Rickmakes]

From what I have heard, the 2013 and 2014 models have had problems with sleep and hibernation when using an NVMe SSD. If you still want to try, you can install the SSD in an external enclosure and install the system on it. You can then boot it while it is in the enclosure. After that, you would swap it out but keep the old drive in case the new one gives you problems. If it does, you can just use the 970 in the external enclosure as extra storage. It would still be pretty fast with USB3.0.

[@jeremyr8793]

Hi i have a mid 2012 macbook pro, I have a samsung 850 ssd (500gb) that now is super slow write speeds (30mb/s) and normal read of 300mb/s+. Downloaded the firmware from samsung for the 850 pro, but cant seem to burn the iso to a usb? Any help please

[@Rickmakes]

Do you have the 850 EVO or PRO? Make sure you are using the correct firmware. You might try using software like Balena Etcher. You choose your ISO and flash drive and it does the rest. I haven't tried it with these firmware updates but there is a good chance it will work. I would also do some research to make sure the firmware update isn't going to wipe the disk. It would be a good idea to back it up either way before you upgrade.

[@Magnificent1393]

Hi, is this firmware compatible with the Samsung pro 970 SSD 1TB?

[@Rickmakes]

This firmware wouldn't be but there could be other firmware available.

[@cmdaltctr]

hi, can i update the firmware the 970 evo plus while connected to my pc via usb? or do i need to connect it to the m.2 slot on my motherboard?

[@Rickmakes]

It needs to be connected to the motherboard to update firmware.

[@navjotrajput6246]

Hey soo I have a 850 evo in a 2012 macbook pro, i created the usb to boot up, but when i start the process it asks me for a samsung login and password, before the welcome screen. Any advice?

[@Rickmakes]

Not sure about that. I have upgraded firmware on an 850 EVO but it was on an iMac and I had burned a CD to do it. That was many years ago so I don't remember the exact procedure.

[@navjotrajput6246]

@@Rickmakes Alright. Thanks

[@33FMC4]

Hey Rick, thanks for the video! I’m unable to find the firmware file in downloads via terminal... what did you type to find the file?

[@JamesCook-uo7wy]

press tab

[@peterlanephotography]

I installed the OS on internal samsung 970 evo plus 2tb, but forgot to check the firmware first. Can i use this method to verify it? If old version, and I update it, will that erase the OS blade? Thanks

[@Rickmakes]

If you bought the drive somewhat recently, it will most surely have the updated firmware.

[@boivi4898]

Thanks for your help & nice video, igot it.

[@jasper5016]

Thanks a lot. it helped me

[@alangfp]

thank you sooooooooo much!!!

[@Rickmakes]

You're welcome!

[@kondurukrishna8812]

sudo dd if=Samsung_SSD_970_EVO_Plus_2B2QEXM7.iso of=/dev/rdiskX after typing this command curser is not at all moving why?

[@Rickmakes]

It can take a few minutes for the command to complete.

[@kondurukrishna8812]

@@Rickmakes thnx a lot sir , i don't know what i have really done but finally my mac with evo plus is opened thnx a lot sir

[@Vocalisto]

@@Rickmakes Can you tell us how the USB Flash Drive must be formated that I can boot from? Should it be FAT32 with Guid Sheme? I followed your instructions but I can't boot from the USB Drive it doesn't show up if I'm holding down the option key...?